Former Mets GM Jim Duquette believes the team is making a mistake by not securing Pete Alonso, especially given the significant investment they made in Juan Soto. Mets owner Steve Cohen and team president David Stearns have expressed frustration with Alonso’s contract negotiations and are considering replacing him internally.
On his MLB Network Radio show, Duquette argued that Alonso is crucial to strengthening the lineup, which he described as “not that good.” He pointed out that the team’s current options, such as Brett Baty, Luisangel Acuña, and Ronny Mauricio, cannot match Alonso’s production. If Alonso leaves, the Mets would rely on Mark Vientos to protect Soto in the lineup. While Vientos had an impressive 2023 season with 27 home runs, Duquette cautioned that sustaining that performance in a second full season is challenging.
Cohen openly admitted at Citi Field’s Amazin’ Day that negotiations with Alonso’s camp have been “exhausting” and that he is unhappy with the contract structures presented. The Mets reportedly offered Alonso a three-year deal worth $68-70 million with opt-outs, but after it was rejected, they shifted focus to signing outfielder Jesse Winker and reliever A.J. Minter.
Cohen remains open to changes but acknowledged that the team may have to move forward without Alonso if negotiations don’t improve.
